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Artist Sought to put visitors to John O’ Groats on the right track

23 December 2011

Following a public meeting on the future artistic shape of John O'Groats, Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) is offering professional artists an early opportunity to transform the coast around the village.

Award-winning artists Dalziel + Scullion, who are the concept artists putting together a broader plan for the iconic site, held an open workshop with the local community earlier this month. The artistic couple are now considering how the variety of fascinating local stories and historical influences will shape their proposals.

Alongside this work, HIE is now looking to commission an artist or artists to undertake the next project, titled "Path". The aim is to install permanent artwork on or around the coastal paths at John O'Groats. The work should be in place by May 2012.

Nick Scroggie from HIE, said: "Development and promotion of the paths network is an important aspect of transforming John O'Groats and the surrounding area into a world-class visitor destination. By developing the paths and adding work by artists, the aim is to encourage walkers to venture further and visitors to stay longer. The work can be either aesthetic or functional, such as shelters, way markers or resting places.

"John O'Groats is on a major international cycle route and has wildlife and scenery as inspiring as anything found across the world. We are looking for artists that can add to this experience and encourage people to explore the natural environment, walk further and engage with the special characteristics of John O'Groats."

HIE has been leading the development work at John O'Groats, working with visitors, businesses and the community to develop a masterplan. The agency has also invested £1.8 million into the £6 million Heritage Great Britain and Natural Retreats redevelopment project, which will see the creation of a number of luxurious apartments and stand alone holiday residences, using environmentally sustainable construction methods and cutting-edge design.

The 'Paths' project has a budget of £15,000 - which is to include the materials, creation and installation of the artist/s work. The application deadline is January 23, 2012 at 12 noon. More information can be found on the procurement page or contact nick.scroggie@hient.co.uk

The John O'Groats arts projects are managed on behalf of HIE by Sue Pirnie Ltd.

Our John O'Groats page has further details on the full transformation planned.